Colin, worked at a furniture factory in Newton Aycliffe before an industrial accident led to his retirement.

He was a regular at a restaurant in Crook run by Karen Ayre, who was the executor of his will.

She said: "He loved sport of all kinds but football, in particular. He used to come in and talk about it all the time."

Colin stipulated that the money should be used to improve the team's Heritage Park ground. The money was raised from the sale of his bungalow home, which was his main asset.

Club director Terry Jackson told how the 'magnificent gesture' will enable them to improve facilities. "It is up to us to honour his memory by making sure every penny is spent wisely," he added.

The club are also planning to name part of the ground after their biggest benefactor as well as making his final wish come true.

"Shortly before he died, he said to me that his dream would be to have his ashes scattered on the penalty spot at the new ground," said Karen.

"He would have been delighted to know that is what is going to happen."

Alistair Nattrass, head of Hewitts private client department, said it was the most ever left to a football club in his experience, and urged people to ensure they have properly drawn up their final wishes in a will.